Mineraloid (Organic)
Amber
Succinite (formula varies, primarily C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Honey yellow to orange
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous trees, dating back to the Carboniferous period but most commonly from the Eocene/Oligocene (approx. 40-50 million years ago).
Uses & applications
Extensively used in jewelry making, folk medicine, and perfumery. It is highly valued by scientists for paleontological research when it contains inclusions like insects or plants.
Geological facts
Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystalline structure. It is one of the few organic 'gems' and can preserve soft-tissue organisms in exquisite detail for millions of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its light weight (it feels like plastic but is colder), resinous feel, and the fact that it will float in highly saturated saltwater. Commonly found in the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.
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